Paralympics 2012: Magic Moments

A Locog type said a few nice words and then the Games makers queued up in
single file, as if receiving Holy Communion, as they were presented with
their gold embossed badge from the Paralympic Association and the
International Olympic Committee.

With a lovely sense of timing the DJ ran a continuous loop of Magic Moments by
Perry Como and How Deep is your Love over the PA to accompany such a solemn
little ceremony.

Their support from the off was a massive act of faith for London 2012. But
then it was party time and they kicked off their shoes, organised foot races
around the 250-metre track or clambered to the top of the 42-degree banks
and slid down like eight year-olds enjoying their first toboggan ride.

For the majority - stewards, door attendants, photocopy operators, runners
with the results sheets - it was their first and only time on the hallowed
track. For a private half-hour they “took the stage” and then they were
gone. But never forgotten.